Choose from six different beaches and a range of watersports including surfing, Jet Skiing and kayaking at this friendly coastal city.

Caloundra is a beachside city that caters to every kind of holiday. Its six beaches offer calm, shallow waters perfect for families, to great surf breaks and everything in between. Get active and go Jet Skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking and windsurfing or spend an afternoon quietly fishing off the rocks. There are shops, restaurants, cafés and cinemas and accommodation that range from luxury hotels to modest beach shacks right on the water.

Caloundra runs from Pumicestone Passage in the south to Point Cartwright in the north and west to the Bruce Highway. The city’s Central Business District runs along Bulcock Street just off Bulcock Beach. Walk along the main strip enjoying it’s many cafés, shops and restaurants. From here you can walk or bike ride along the scenic coastal boardwalk that links Bulcock Beach with Kings Beach.

Children can splash in the public saltwater pool and water fountain that looks over Kings Beach. North of here, Moffat Beach is popular with surfers. Hire a board or sign up for lessons.

Golden Beach, Shelly Beach and Dicky Beach all have the beautiful white sand and clear water that the Sunshine Coast is known for. Bring a towel, shade umbrella and sunscreen for a day at the beach. Each area has its own cafés, restaurants and accommodation.

Most of the beaches offer rental facilities for watersports such as surfing, Jet Skiing and kayaking. If you’re unsure, you’ll find everything you need along Bulcock Street.

Take a cruise down the Pumicestone Passage Marine Park. The narrow channel between Bribie Island and the mainland is filled with wildlife including dolphins, turtles and sea birds.Away from the water there are golf courses and plenty of coastal and inland paths through stunning natural scenery. Visit the Bulcock Street Markets on Sunday for fresh produce, handmade trinkets and live music.

Caloundra is the southernmost settlement on the Sunshine Coast. It’s located about 90 kilometres (56 miles) north of Brisbane. Hire a car to get around there is free parking along the beach. If you’re not driving, use the Sunbus, which services the Sunshine Coast.